Freundel Jerome Stuart QC MP (born 27 April 1951)[1][2] is the seventh Prime Minister of Barbados.[3][4] He succeeded David Thompson, who died on 23 October 2010 of pancreatic cancer.[5][6] He is a member of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP).

Biography

Personal life and career

Stuart was born in Saint Philip, Barbados.[7] He is single as of October 2010 and is the father of one daughter, who is a sociology student at the University of the West Indies' Cave Hill Campus in Barbados.[8]

An alumnus of the Christ Church Foundation School, Stuart is a graduate of the University of the West Indies and holds degrees in Political Science and Law.[8] He is a lawyer and his practice encompasses criminal and corporate law.[8]

He has supported several community organizations and currently sponsors the Dayrells United Achievers Community Club and the Notre Dame Sports Club.[6]

Political career

Freundel Stuart has for several years been a stalwart of the Democratic Labour Party and has served in many capacities including that of President. He represents the St. Michael South constituency.

7th Prime Minister of Barbados

Stuart served as acting Prime Minister of Barbados since May 2010 when Prime Minister David Thompson became ill with pancreatic cancer.[8] Adriel Brathwaite succeeded Stuart in the positions he then held, namely Attorney-General and Minister of Home Affairs.[9] Thompson died on October 23, 2010.[7] Leaders of the Democratic Labour Party held an emergency meeting at the party's headquarters on George Street in Bridgetown on the morning of Thompson's death, during which Stuart was chosen as the next Prime Minister.[7]

Stuart was sworn in as the 7th Prime Minister of Barbados the same day by Governor General Clifford Husbands.[7]

In 2011, Stuart was appointed as a member of the UN Global Panel on Sustainability.